Essendon plays host to North Melbourne on Friday at Etihad Stadium in what is an intriguing clash.

Both side’s head into the game with 3-3 records that reflect mixed starts to the season.

The Bombers were never in the hunt against a polished Fremantle outfit in Perth last week and will be hoping for an improved performance against their fellow finals contenders.

North Melbourne got the four points over Richmond in round five, but it was a scrappy performance that left coach Brad Scott wanting more from his players.

Essendon have been rocked by the news that WADA will appeal the AFL anti-doping tribunal’s not guilty verdict in regards to the 34 current and former Bombers players, and it will be interesting to see just it affects James Hird’s men.